Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Europe and is one of the 7 summits of the world. It lies in the Caucasus ranges in Russia with a height of 5642m/18510 ft. It is a notorious mountain, the thin air and the extreme cold makes it challenging. It is a test of the mental strength, toughness and physical fitness. Since the route is more taxing it is recommended that trekkers should be physically fit.
Day 1
Arrive at Mineralnye Vody Airport by afternoon, Cab will be waiting for transfer to Hotel (Dinner place).The hotel is situated in the beginning of 100km Baksan valley, almost on the slope of Elbrus. In the village Terscol closed by you can find post office with internet, resque service, equipment shops and rentals. Early evening pre-climb briefing on the trek, dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2
Acclamatization hike(using ski lift before) to Mt.Cheget which is 3470m. A prefect view of Elbrus, our climbing route,the Baksan valley and observatory on peak Terskol can be seen.
Day 3
We will ride ski lifts up to huts till 3720m altitude and then hike up to 4500m. We will spend the night in huts.
Day 4
Relax day. Preparations for the summit day. By this time we will be well acclamatized. Get used to using ice axe, crampons and self arrest.
Day 5
The D Day :) Climb mount Elbrus. We will start at 2am. There will be one guide for 3-4 people. We will hire a snowcat to go to the altitude of 4550m. And we push for the summit from there.
Day 6
Descend to the hotel.. Celebrations.
Day 7
We keep a Reserve day in case of bad weather. Or for multiple summit attempt in case some of us don't reach the summit on the first attempt. The idea is to ensure all of us reach the summit. Rest of the gang can trek around to Observatory.
Day 8
Breakfast at Hotel/Lodge. Leaving to airport. Visit Moscow and St Petersberg on the way back to India.
